Langley Resident Sentenced to Eight Years for 3D Printed Firearms and Drug Crimes
A significant legal case in British Columbia has concluded with a substantial prison sentence for a Langley man involved in manufacturing firearms using 3D printing technology and drug trafficking. Tyson Saverio Santolla pleaded guilty in 2025 to multiple serious charges, resulting in an eight-year prison term handed down in January of that year.
Investigation Origins and Police Actions
The case originated from a tip received by the anti-gang squad in 2020, which initiated a comprehensive investigation by the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of British Columbia. This investigation led police to execute searches at four separate locations across the Fraser Valley region.
The targeted properties included two homes in Aldergrove, specifically in the 5100-block of 248th Street and the 26500-block of 32A Avenue. Additionally, authorities searched a residence and a vehicle in the 30900-block of Westridge Place in Abbotsford, along with another home in the 32400-block of Simon Avenue, also located in Abbotsford.
Evidence Seized During Police Operations
During these coordinated searches, law enforcement officials made significant seizures that formed the basis of the criminal charges. The recovered items included:
- Two functional 3D printers used for manufacturing firearm components
- Multiple 3D printed pistol frames ready for assembly
- Various Glock firearm parts and accessories
- Substantial quantities of illegal drugs, specifically 1.7 kilograms of methamphetamine and 300 grams of fentanyl
These seizures led to the arrest of three individuals: two men and one woman, with Santolla identified as the primary suspect in the operation.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Santolla faced multiple serious charges including drug trafficking, firearms manufacturing, and possession of restricted firearms. The charges were formally laid in May 2023, following the extensive investigation that began three years earlier.
Law enforcement officials have expressed particular concern about the emerging trend of privately manufactured firearms being produced for criminal purposes. The combination of advanced manufacturing technology with traditional drug trafficking operations represents a significant challenge for public safety authorities.
Police Commentary on Public Safety Concerns
Sergeant Sarbjit K. Sangha of British Columbia's Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit emphasized the serious nature of these combined criminal activities. "The combination of illegal firearms and drug trafficking poses a significant danger to public safety," stated Sgt. Sangha, highlighting the particular risks associated with this type of criminal enterprise.
Police authorities have noted that the use of 3D printing technology for firearms manufacturing represents a worrying development in criminal circles. The relative accessibility of this technology, combined with the potential for untraceable weapons production, creates new challenges for law enforcement agencies across Canada.
The successful prosecution and substantial sentence in this case demonstrate the serious approach Canadian authorities are taking toward these emerging criminal methodologies. The eight-year prison term reflects the gravity of offenses involving both dangerous drugs and illegally manufactured firearms.
